Young people have the power to localize SDGs

The International Youth Day, celebrated on 12 August, is a reminder of the potential within Uganda’s young population. With the 2025 theme “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the day was not just about recognition – it was a call to action. At HEPS-Uganda, we believe this theme is directly linked to our core mission of ensuring access to essential medicines for all Ugandans.

Uganda has one of the world’s youngest populations, with over 70% of its citizens under 30. This demographic is not just a statistic; it is a dynamic force for change. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) often feel like distant global ambitions, but their success hinges on local action. Up to 65% of SDG targets are tied to local governance and community-level implementation.

Youth are not merely beneficiaries of development; they are essential creators. Their creativity, innovation, and deep community connections are vital for bridging the gap between national policies and the real-life needs of people on the ground. When it comes to healthcare and access to medicines, this is particularly critical.

The right to health is a fundamental human right, and SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being – is a cornerstone of this agenda. Yet, many communities in Uganda still face significant barriers to accessing affordable and quality medicines. We face a dilemma of stock-outs (and even complete non-availability) of essential medicines at local government health facilities, and unaffordable medicines in private drug shops and pharmacies.

The specific needs of youth highlight medicines for common infectious diseases, adolescent-specific health issues, and non-communicable diseases. For adolescents and young adults, access to contraceptives and other reproductive health commodities is essential for preventing unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, especially HIV.

While we will continue to sensitize young people about abstinence, we should not continue to turn a blind eye to the reality of sexual activity in this age group. Sexuality education should be complemented by facilitated access to condoms, antibiotics, and antiretrovirals.

Evidence has shown that access to these essential commodities can be enhanced through school and out-of-school health programs and peer approaches, but youth-led advocacy, including through social media and other digital technology platforms.

The Ministry of Health, alongside global and civil society partners, has recognized the importance of these interventions. They have facilitated forums to strengthen youth participation, providing a platform to review accomplishments and strategize for the future, but building consensus and scaled implementation remain a challenge.

At HEPS-Uganda, we are committed to working with young people to champion the cause of access to medicines. Your voice, your ideas, and your energy are our most powerful tools. Follow our social media channels to join our media campaign, and reach us for community and school outreaches, policy dialogue, and action! Let us transform the promise of the SDGs into tangible health outcomes for every Ugandan.

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